9 Investigates: Osceola County clerk of court denies hiring extra security

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — 9 Investigates obtained documents that show Osceola County clerk of court Armando Ramriez spent money on extra security guards, which court employees said weren’t needed.

Kissimmee police patrol outside, Osceola County deputies are assigned to work inside and a private security company handles visitors entering the courthouse.

Channel 9’s Nancy Alvarez found Victor Quinones at his post at the courthouse.

The logo on his shirt is labeled "security."

He wouldn’t comment on his job and directed Alvarez to human resources.  A human resources employee said no one there could speak on the matter.

But some employees, who did not want to be identified for fear of losing their jobs, are speaking out.

“He has a walkie-talkie and he walks around and asks us if everything is OK,” one employee said.

Ramirez denied Quinones and another switchboard operator hired five months ago work security.

But Quinones’ personnel file shows he works security.

It said his $15-an-hour job includes investigating disturbances and removing people from the courthouse with use of force if necessary.

“We believe it’s waste of time and a waste of money. He’s not needed there,” said an employee.

Ramirez is facing several lawsuits by former employees. Two accused him and his top staff of gifting positions to friends and family.

Ramirez denied any personal connections to Quinones but employees are skeptical, especially at a time when many are worried about layoffs.

“It’s hard for us to wake up every morning and think, ‘What now? Am I going to be employed by the end of the day?’” said an employee.

Ramirez's office sent Channel 9 a statement which read, "The Clerk’s Switchboard Security Officer does not operate in the same capacity as the security guard company hired by Osceola County to oversee the Administration and Courthouse Complex and entrance into the Courthouse building. The switchboard position has always existed and was expanded in January of this year in order to accommodate the requests of several employees in the Clerk’s Office.  The security of our employees is of utmost importance and the responsibility of any employer.  As a matter of fact, this position is no different than positions which currently exist with other constitutional officers in Osceola County."

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